Utilizing an amazing 1,130 acre natural resource, Hale Reservation develops youth leaders and stewards for the natural environment through year-round outdoor education opportunities. In the summer, over 4,400 children from 70 communities in Greater Boston attend camps; between 800-900 come from Boston. During the year, over 7,000 children visit Hale for education based programs. Through challenge course activities, a natural classroom setting, and creative educational programming children are encouraged to develop their own unique leadership style and discover a connection to nature.

During the camp season, almost 50% of the children come to Hale thanks to financial aid. Diverse programs include - a summer school designed to give disadvantaged children a high quality experience that helps reduce summer learning loss; a camp for children with Asperger’s Syndrome; a family camp; a mountain bike and an adventure camp.

Funds raised through the Boston Athletic Association’s Marathon program will help ensure that we continue to provide positive outdoor experiences to urban youth.

Born in West Medford, Massachusetts as one of ten children, Kelley ran track and cross-country at Arlington High School in Massachusetts. He did not finish his first Boston Marathon in 1928, but eventually competed in a record 61 Boston Marathons. A legend of the marathon, Kelley won the 1935 and 1945 runnings of the Boston Marathon. He finished in second place at Boston a record seven times. Between 1934 to 1950, he finished in the top five 15 times at Boston, consistently running in the 2:30s. He ran his last full marathon at Boston in 1992 at the age of 84, his 61st start and 58th finish there.